The Verdigris Pawn
on Goodreads (519)
What’s inside...
A boy named Beau, who underestimates his power, meets a girl with a unique gift long thought lost. Together they uncover secrets kept hidden by Beau's power-hungry father. As they seek a rebel that could help, they team up with a fiery runaway boy. Their mission grows, facing sinister forces ready to strike. Ultimately, Beau might find the power within himself to change the course of the Land, shifting from a pawn to a key player before it tears itself apart. A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection!
Age
10-12
Length
368 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Beau
Cressi
Nate
King Leon
Discussion points
What decisions would you make if you were in Beau's position and why?
How do you think the friendships in the story help the characters grow?
What does 'power' mean in the context of this story? Who has it, and who doesn’t?
What role do secrets play in the story? Can keeping a secret be both good and bad?
How can Beau’s journey inspire us to make changes in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate Beau’s struggles and triumphs to their own experiences, promoting empathy and self-reflection.
Discuss the moral dilemmas presented in the book and ask your child how they would handle similar situations, fostering critical thinking.
Highlight the importance of friendships and alliances in the story, discussing how relationships can influence one's decisions and growth.
Explore the theme of power with your child: ask them about times when they felt powerful or powerless and how they dealt with those situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The power of self-belief
Explanation: The protagonist, Beau, starts off uncertain about his abilities to influence change but gradually learns to trust in his own strength and intelligence.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of believing in themselves, which can enhance their confidence to face challenges and stand up for what they believe in.
Example Lesson: Understanding the impact of decisions
Explanation: Throughout the story, Beau's choices directly impact the course of events, teaching him the consequences of his actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson educates children on cause and effect, helping them understand that their decisions can have significant impacts on themselves and others.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Beau forms alliances and builds trust with characters like Nate, which is crucial in his journey. This highlights the importance of mutual support and trustworthiness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of building and maintaining trustful relationships and how cooperation can lead to achieving common goals.
Example Lesson: Questioning and challenging the status quo
Explanation: Beau challenges the oppressive structures of his society, which initiates positive change and justice.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to critically evaluate their surroundings and advocate for fairness and justice in their own communities.
Example Lesson: Value of perseverance
Explanation: Beau faces numerous challenges and setbacks in his quest, yet his persistent efforts eventually lead to desired changes.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles and achieving their goals, no matter how difficult the journey might seem.